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Rammed Earth Structures with Views of the Umbrian Valley

Author:
Phoebe Wai Fung Chu
Rammed Earth Structures with Views of the Umbrian Valley
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Built with rammed earth and surrounded by a fruit tree garden, the guest house offers elevated views of the Umbrian valley while seamlessly blending privacy and connection to the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Five identical guest houses designed for privacy and easy access to communal areas.
02
Elevated terrace design optimizes views of the Umbrian valley and sunsets.
03
Existing materials, including bricks from previous structures, reduce waste.
04
Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed windows.
05
Landscaped entry features a fruit tree garden and pond for enhanced arrival experience.

The Tili Vini guest home is located in the beautiful Umbrian valley and enhances the experience offered by the nearby Tili Vini winery. The design focuses on elevation, positioning several guest houses to provide clear views of the hills and stunning sunsets. The overall concept is to connect visitors with the local environment and culture. The layout encourages easy movement between indoor and outdoor areas while ensuring privacy for guests.

Design Concept

At the heart of the design is the concept of being "ELEVATED." Five identical guest houses are constructed atop a terrace, creating a clear distinction between public and private spaces. This arrangement allows guests to enjoy communal areas like the terrace, pool, and bar without sacrificing their comfort. By elevating the buildings, the design reduces noise and activity around the guest houses, promoting a peaceful atmosphere.

Arrival Experience

Visitors reach the guest home through a well-defined entrance lined with black poplar trees. As they walk through the landscape, they encounter a fruit tree garden and a pond, creating a natural setting that enhances their arrival experience. This pathway serves as a smooth transition into the reception area. The landscaping is intentional and inviting, drawing guests into the environment right from the moment they arrive.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability plays an important role in the design. Existing materials are reused to lower waste and environmental impact. The project incorporates bricks from the previous building, along with locally sourced bricks and rammed earth. This choice shows respect for both the local architecture and the surrounding landscape. Rammed earth also helps in regulating indoor temperatures, contributing to energy efficiency.

Thermal Performance and Ventilation

The guest houses are designed with thoughtfully placed windows that promote natural airflow. Windows on the east and west sides enhance ventilation through convection, allowing fresh air to circulate effectively. This design choice not only helps with comfort but also supports energy-saving measures, resulting in a pleasant indoor climate throughout the year.

Each guest house connects to an elevated terrace that provides visitors with clear views of the stunning valley. This setup encourages relaxation and enjoyment of the landscape. The design focuses on creating a strong bond between the built environment and nature, reinforcing the intentional vision of Tili Vini while providing a comfortable space for guests.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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